Radiesse Facial Contouring

Radiesse is an injectable product approved by the FDA for the purpose of filling facial folds and lines. The advantage of this product is the potential for a long lasting effect. Radiesse consists of calcium hydroxylapatite suspended in gel (carboxymethylcellulose). Because calcium hydroxylapatite is a normal constituent of bone, it should not elicit a chronic inflammatory or immune response. Additionally, the gel carrier doesn’t require allergy testing such as required with collagen. Calcium hydroxylapatite has been used in humans for a long time in prosthetic implants in dental, facial, and orthopedic surgery. Studies have shown that the product remains soft when injected into the skin. The longest term studies come from Italy and suggest that Radiesse shows promise as a new agent for facial contouring with no serious side effects and reasonable effectiveness and durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the Radiesse treatment last?

Most patients treated with Radiesse can expect a correction which lasts approximately one to two years, although some patients’ treatment results can last longer. The average duration of effect is 14 months.

What areas of the face are normally treated with Radiesse?

Typical Radiesse treatments include: smoothing and contouring smile lines or nasolabial folds, wrinkles at the corner of the mouth, facial/nasal defects or recessions, frown lines, restoring volume in and around the cheeks and chin, and modest enhancement or correcting asymmetrical features (facial contouring). More applications are being developed.

Will the Radiesse become hard, calcified or noticeable to touch?

To the contrary…Radiesse will remain soft and take on the characteristics of the surrounding tissue. New soft tissue will gradually replace the Radiesse over time with most replacement occurring within three months.

Does the treatment hurt?

A mild localized anesthetic is normally used to minimize or usually eliminate the pain associated with this type of treatment. The numbing effects will wear off in as little as fifteen minutes to as long as a couple of hours depending on the anesthetic used by your physician. There may be some mild discomfort for several hours or even a day or two after treatment.

Are there any lingering effects of the treatment and when can I return to my normal activities?

There is minor inflammation or swelling from the treatment as a result of the expansion of facial tissue. This normally resolves within 24 hours but has been reported to last as long as 48 hours for some patients. Bruising may also occur and may last for 3-7 days. Most patients resume normal activities only a few hours after receiving treatment. Application of ice intermittently for a short period after the treatment will help reduce any swelling.

Are there any activity restrictions after I receive the treatment?

You should avoid activities that will strain your facial features for 48 hours following treatment as much as possible (“facial rest”). For example, avoid activities such as smoking, strenuous laughing, using a straw, singing, shouting, etc., especially if injected around the lips. Otherwise normal activities are fine.